Purchasing Specialist

THE ROLE

The Purchasing Specialist plays a critical role in managing the procurement process, ensuring the timely acquisition of goods and services to support the organization's operations. This position involves overseeing supplier relationships, negotiating contracts and implementing procurement strategies to achieve cost savings and operational efficiency. The Purchasing Specialist works collaboratively with internal teams and external vendors to ensure compliance with organizational policies and industry regulations.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

+ Source, evaluate, and select suppliers to meet organizational needs. + Ensure that all purchases meet quality, cost, and delivery requirements.

+ Develop and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers. + Negotiate contracts, terms, and pricing to achieve cost savings and favorable agreements. + Monitor supplier performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and service level agreements.

+ Draft, review, and manage procurement contracts and agreements. + Ensure contracts are in compliance with company policies and legal requirements. + Resolve disputes or issues with suppliers in a timely and professional manner.

+ Develop and implement purchasing strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs. + Conduct market research to identify trends, pricing changes, and new suppliers. + Analyze spending patterns and recommend cost-saving initiatives.

+ Work closely with internal departments (e.g., finance, operations, maintenance) to understand procurement needs and align purchasing strategies with business goals. + Coordinate with teams to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.

+ Ensure all purchasing activities comply with company policies, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements. + Maintain accurate procurement records, including purchase orders, contracts, and supplier information.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE

+ Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.

+ A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain roles. + Proven experience in vendor negotiation and contract management.

+ Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills. + Proficiency in procurement software and tools (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Coupa). + Analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions. + Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.

+ Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). + Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP). + Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).

COMPETENCIES:

WORK ENVIRONMENT: